In its recent communication with the DfT, Liverpool Chamber of Commerce called upon the Government to take forward its proposals for lifting a restriction on Liverpool’s cruise liner terminal. Under existing arrangements cruise ships can only use the berthing stage as a port-of-call rather than for ‘turnaround’ operations which would see cruises setting out and ending in Liverpool.
Maresa Molloy, Head of Policy said: “The UK has the largest cruise liner market in Europe. A high-quality cruise terminal that is fully equipped and authorised to service major cruise liners would provide a tremendous boost to Liverpool’s visitor economy. It would provide increased choice and access for cruise passengers based in the North of England and Scotland who currently have to travel to crowded facilities in the South-East that over 300 kms away. Most cruise passengers lie within the 50+ age bracket and are looking for efficient and uncongested transfers to their cruise holidays. Liverpool’s city centre terminal offers seamless links with world-class accommodation, cultural and recreational facilities and we are keen to ensure that the flow of visitors allows the city to reach its full economic potential.”
Jack Stopforth, Chief Executive said: “Liverpool is one of the world's greatest ports and the city's contribution to the commercial development and security of the UK cannot be overstated. The first Cunard transatlantic services were between Liverpool and Boston 150 years ago and are being commemorated by Cunard who are bringing their wonderful flagship vessels, including the Queen Victoria, to the city in the next few months. Cunard began here; the Cunard Building is a centrepiece of our UNESCO World Heritage waterfront and the revitalised city centre forms a spectacular backdrop to their majestic liners. The point of structural funds is to give new purpose to regional economies whose original economic foundation was no longer viable or fit for purpose. To sabotage the new competitiveness thus engendered is perverse. Today, largely because of EU funding, Liverpool is rehabilitated - politically, socially and (partially) economically. We still have some of the most blighted areas in the country and many of the most deprived electoral wards in the UK and so the recovery is very much a work in progress. The symmetry and natural justice of the cruise liner business contributing to that progress is surely irresistible? Liverpool City Council has made a commitment to partial repayment as a concession to the so-called anti-competitiveness lobby: that is a matter for them and we in the Chamber will support them”.
